Meet J Ro
J Ro's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
J Ro (he/him) is a 28-year-old Black trans man who is midway through the process of getting bottom surgery. He is a vocal supporter for trans and queer people of color like himself through working in professional and personal advocacy. However, the funding to sustain this work has been inconsistent. From being an essential worker throughout the pandemic and supporting his family, J Ro has sought out every avenue of aid to allow him to receive the medical care he needs to finally be comfortable in his own skin.
"My bottom surgery is a 4-step process: the need to finish has never felt more pressing than right now," J Ro shares. "The discomfort I feel with my body as it is strains my mental and physical health. Electrolysis will help eliminate the risk of complications and clear me for the next stage on my journey." J Ro has spent his adult life advocating for the intersectionality of the queer and trans community in the black and brown communities, with the goal to be a safe space for those who are in the beginning of their transitions especially trans masculine individuals.
J Ro's timeline
-
Award Granted
June 29, 2023
J Ro was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
July 18, 2023
A payment has been made toward J Ro's permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
October 5, 2023
A payment has been made toward J Ro's permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
October 11, 2023
A payment has been made toward J Ro's permanent hair removal! -
Update
July 5, 2024
J Ro had his surgery on Nov 9, 2023 and no longer needs electrolysis. While he's still working through some complications from his procedure, he has decided to forfeit the remainder of his award, allowing Point of Pride to invest the money in a future electrolysis support recipient.
Grant details
$1,250 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like J Ro get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Masc Award
On average, it costs $1,700+ for J Ro's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans masc people seeking hair removal on an area of their body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans, even if such services are medical prerequisites for a covered surgery. For people who cannot afford hair removal, they are stuck without options to move forward with their healthcare needs.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
After completing hair removal, these folks are able to move forward with their surgeries. In itself, this often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, and more.